ICoD embarks on a search for a new Head of Secretariat

07.08.2026 Career Center

The International Council of Design (ICoD) is the global voice for the design profession, representing over 110 member organisations worldwide. Following our recent announcement to relocate our Secretariat office to Vilnius, Lithuania, we are seeking a dynamic leader to drive our operations in the new location.

The ICoD Head of Secretariat role is a three-year appointment with the option for renewal. This accountable position oversees day-to-day operational and administrative management to ensure overall business success.

Our talent search committee invites our Members and stakeholders to assist in our recruitment by circulating this call for applicants to your networks of potential talent.

Position title: Head of Secretariat

Location: Vilnius, Lithuania

Type: Full-time (Hybrid)

Applications close: 28 August 2026

Commencement: October 2026

Overview:

This is a unique, evolving leadership role divided into two phases:

• Phase 1 (projected 6 to 8 weeks) – As the initial sole employee, you will be responsible for establishing the new Secretariat office at the Vilnius Design College, Vilnius. This will include managing all legal transitions from the current location in Montréal, Canada, the installation of new office infrastructure, overseeing day-to-day operations and administrative tasks, financial management, and the execution of current Member programming activities.
• Phase 2: As the Secretariat stabilises, you will lead the expansion of our staff team. You will recruit, train and manage two new positions: a Communications and Research Specialist and a Membership Relations and Projects Specialist. You will also transition your own position into a strategic and managerial role.

Key responsibilities for Phase 1:

• Establish the physical office and legal, administrative, and banking operations in Lithuania.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Executive Board, preparing weekly operational reports and bi-weekly financial updates.
• Assist the Executive Board with hosting the upcoming General Assembly and Platform Meeting in Madrid, Spain. 
• Manage monthly billing, issue invoices, track membership fees, and coordinate with the external accounting company.
• Respond to member and stakeholder inquiries and ensure the organisation operates smoothly.
• Manage and maintain databases.
• Build connections with the Vilnius Consortium partners.

Key responsibilities for Phase 2:

• Hire, mentor, and oversee the Secretariat staff to ensure alignment with the Executive Board’s strategic objectives and ICoD’s Articles and Bylaws.
• Financial management and partnership development are critical operational functions, including the development and management of budgets, cash flow, and partnership development.
• Provide necessary administrative support to ICoD members and related stakeholders, ensuring compliance with the ICoD’s Articles and Bylaws, such as organising Annual General Meetings and biannual General Assemblies.
• Manage the development and implementation of member service programming.
• Oversee all communications and promotion activities across all ICoD assets, channels and social media platforms.
• Manage high-level legal and fiduciary filings, auditor communications, and strategic partnerships.
• Support Executive Board members, committees, and ad hoc project officers.
• Coordinate, participate in, and document official Executive Board meetings, and compile minutes and reports.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of databases and institutional archives.
• Foster and oversee connections and collaborations with Vilnius Consortium partners, corresponding entities, affiliates, media sponsors/patrons, and other stakeholders.

What we’re looking for:

Education

• A degree in Business Management, International Relations, Journalism, Cultural Management, Design or a related creative industry is desirable. An advanced degree is an asset.

 
Experience

• Management and administrative experience within non-profit and international organisations.
• Leadership experience with cross-cultural staff volunteers teams and boards.
• Financial management experience including budget and cash-flow management and financial processes. Practical knowledge of QuickBooks is a strong asset.
• Experience within the design or other creative sectors and/or professional associations at a management or leadership level.
• Strategic planning experience.
• Event management experience.

 
Other considerations

• Excellent English spoken and written skills are required. Additional bilingualism would be advantageous.
• Superior communication, diplomatic, lobbying, negotiation, and networking skills are essential.
• The candidate must be available and able to travel internationally for Board meetings and other assignments.
• Proven leadership and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision are also required.

Term:

The role commences with a three-month probation period followed by a three-year appointment with the option for renewal contingent on mutual agreement.

Reporting:

This position reports to the Executive Board, elected by the ICoD membership for a two-year term.

Compensation:

Compensation is commensurate with the successful candidate’s experience. Standard social benefits will comply with Lithuanian labour law requirements.

How to apply:

Please submit a detailed CV and a brief cover letter including salary expectations by 31 August 2026 to hr@theicod.org. Forward questions regarding this position or request further information to the same address at least one week before the final submission deadline.